Perks Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🎁
Add to dictionary

perks

[pɜːrks ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

employee benefits

Perks are special privileges or benefits that come with a job or position, in addition to one's salary. These perks can include things like free meals, company cars, or extra vacation days.

Synonyms

advantages, benefits, privileges.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
perks

Used to describe additional advantages or bonuses that come with a job or position, often informal and related to extra treats or non-salary rewards.

  • One of the perks of working here is the free coffee and snacks.
  • She enjoys job perks like gym memberships and company outings.
benefits

Typically used in a more formal setting to describe positive outcomes, usually referring to health insurance, retirement plans, or other resources provided to employees by employers.

  • One of the job benefits includes dental insurance.
  • Regular exercise has numerous health benefits.
privileges

Often implies special rights or advantages given to a particular person or group, sometimes perceived as exclusive or unearned, potentially carrying a negative connotation.

  • She has the privilege to access the executive lounge.
  • With great power comes great responsibility and privilege.
advantages

Refers to favorable circumstances or conditions that increase the likelihood of success or benefit; it can be used in various formal and informal contexts.

  • Living close to the office has its advantages.
  • He has an advantage in the competition thanks to his experience.

Examples of usage

  • Employees at the tech company enjoy perks such as a gym membership and catered lunches.
  • One of the perks of being a flight attendant is the opportunity to travel to different countries.
  • The CEO of the company receives perks such as a private jet and a personal assistant.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Business

  • In the workplace, perks can include free lunches, gym memberships, or more vacation days, making jobs more appealing to employees.
  • Companies often use perks as a way to entice potential hires, especially in competitive job markets.

Culture

  • In popular culture, it's common to feature workplace perks in sitcoms, showcasing how they affect employee dynamics in funny ways.
  • Cafés often offer perks like loyalty cards, where you get a free drink after buying a set number, making customers feel valued.

Psychology

  • Experiencing perks can enhance job satisfaction and overall happiness, as they contribute to a positive work environment.
  • Perks that promote well-being, like mental health days, can significantly affect employee morale and productivity.

Origin of 'perks'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'perk' is derived from the word 'perquisite,' which means an extra benefit or advantage that comes with a job.
  • The slang form appeared in the U.S. in the 20th century, becoming a popular term to describe small bonuses or advantages.

The word 'perks' is believed to have originated in the early 20th century as an abbreviation of 'perquisites', which referred to various benefits or privileges received in addition to one's regular salary. Over time, 'perks' became the commonly used term to describe such additional benefits in the workplace.


See also: perk.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,443, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.